06/02/2026
Your “credit score” might not be the score your mortgage lender is looking at.
Most credit apps show VantageScore. Many mortgage decisions still rely on FICO models. Same credit report, different scoring math.
So when your app says one number and your lender says another, it doesn’t automatically mean something’s wrong. It usually means you’re comparing two different score types.
If you’re buying in the next 3–6 months, the simplest focus is: pay on time, keep card balances low (even before you pay them off), and avoid opening new accounts right before pre-approval.
Want the 3 questions to ask so you know which score actually matters for your plan? Comment “Score.”